Good news! A team of scientists from the Northwestern University in Illinois (US) have found a way to break down the bonds that make Polyethylene.

Polyethylene is one of the most common types of plastic. We find it many househld products like plastic bags, bottles, etc.

The process cuts the plastic polymer turning it into liquid oil. It does that through a catalytic technique using metal nanoparticles to chop the polymer apart.

This liquid oil can then be used for other purposes, like lubricant, and scientists are looking into other potential uses.

The strong bonds that make Polyethylene are what makes plastic so durable. It is why plastic never degrades.

Although this is still an early discovery, let´s hope one day it can help the fight against plastic waste.

In the meantime, we can all so our bit by reducing our use of plastic, and reduce our waste.

Have a look at hundreds of tips on how to reduce plastic here 🌿😉.

Source: BBC, ACS Central Science